Title: The Hang Out Group: And the Creatures of the Garden
Author: Taylor J. Gase
Publisher: Book Vine Press
ISBN: 978-1955885492
Pages: 414
Genre: Fantasy / Adventure
Reviewed by: Ephantus M.
Pacific Book Review
Author Taylor J. Gase’s The Hang Out Group: And the Creatures of the Garden is an adventure and fantasy novel about seven friends whose camping trip turns worrisome after witnessing a mysterious occurrence.
Logan, the preferred leader of the Hang Out Group, is startled by the shocking sight of an object that has fallen from the sky, shaking the ground below him. His movements awaken the rest of the camping group, and together they rush towards the crash site. There are flaming rocks lying around and a huge tunnel that seems to have been dug by the object. Logan is quick to pick up a sound coming from inside the tunnel, which he decides to investigate, only to encounter the most magical scenery he has ever seen.
A deep sense of wonder and curiosity fills the atmosphere as the seven friends try to evaluate the breathtaking environment. A glowing white light attracts them into a cave, where they find a gigantic gem. They are taken aback by the discovery and decide to take a part of it for sale. To their shock, interfering with it nearly sends them into early graves after a bright light hits each of them forcefully like lightning. Unbeknownst to them, a journey of puzzles and chasing after an unbeatable threat may have just begun.
This novel ideation was inspired by author Gase and friends’ high school memories. He is an exceptionally creative author who has woven a breathtaking tale which excellently merges elements of fantasy, action, and adventure. The plot promotes love, friendship, and courage, as well as resilience in the face of demanding situations. Though he is featured in the plot as one of the main characters (Juice), readers will find that he has allowed each of the other central characters to shine without concentrating too much on himself. He has created intricate and immersive worlds and complex characters and ably revealed them through inventive world-building.
The Hang Out Group: And the Creatures of the Garden is a read which keeps the readers’ curiosity at its peak with every new chapter. Its magic is in the author’s elegant prose, which evokes a sense of wonder and whimsy. There are many fantasy books out there, but if you want a text that will blow your mind with bone-chilling twists, you won’t want to miss this one!
